The position taken by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is crystal clear: travel agencies should not be held responsible for air ticket refunds if they do not have the necessary funds. Unfortunately, the Department of Transportation (DOT) recently finalized regulations in late April that expand the circumstances in which air passengers are entitled
The landscape of all-inclusive resorts has transformed significantly in recent years as a response to the shift in traveler preferences. No longer associated with bottom-shelf booze and mediocre dining options, the sector has undergone a significant upgrade towards more luxury offerings. The demand for all-inclusive resorts, especially in the wake of the pandemic, has surged
While many spirits like whiskey, tequila, and gin often take the spotlight, vodka remains the world’s most popular spirit. However, it has often been overlooked due to the influx of low-quality and flavored vodkas in the market. Many drinkers perceive vodka as a flavorless spirit meant for mixing into cocktails. This misconception overlooks vodka’s long
The U.S. Travel Association is raising alarms about a proposed amendment that could restrict the use of biometric facial recognition technology in airports. Senators Jeff Merkley and John Kennedy have introduced an amendment to the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill that has the potential to cause significant travel delays. According to the association, if this
JetBlue is set to introduce its business class Mint cabin to three new destinations this summer and fall. The airline will be offering year-round Mint service between New York and Vancouver, as well as between New York JFK and San Juan. Additionally, lie-flat cabins will be added seasonally on flights from Boston and New York
Southwest Airlines has recently been ranked as having the highest economy class customer satisfaction among North American airlines in J.D. Power’s 2024 North America Airlines Satisfaction Study. This study also found that Delta Airlines took the top spot in both the first/business class and premium economy categories. According to Michael Taylor, J.D. Power’s senior managing
Seabourn, a luxury cruise line, has recently made a significant decision to name the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners as godparents of their expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit. This bold move not only acknowledges the rich indigenous culture of Australia but also serves as a symbol of respect and stewardship towards the environment and the communities that
The International Brewing Awards, established in 1886, are the oldest beer competition in the world. In 2013, the International Cider Awards were added to honor the best ciders as well. What sets these awards apart is the fact that judging is done solely by working professionals in the brewing and cider making industries. The panel
Emirates airline, one of Boeing’s biggest customers, recently expressed frustration with the safety crisis facing the American planemaker. The chairman and CEO of Emirates, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, voiced concerns over the delays in order deliveries and the overall situation with Boeing. Despite being Boeing’s largest customer in terms of widebody jets with
The cruise industry is experiencing a shift in booking trends that is reshaping the landscape of summer sailings. With cruisers facing limited availability and record-high inventory levels, the usual last-minute bookings are becoming a thing of the past. Industry insiders, such as cruise line executives and travel advisors, are witnessing a surge in demand that
In the wake of the Covid era, consumers have become increasingly comfortable with online shopping, a trend that has extended to the cruise industry. The ease and convenience of online sales and DIY bookings have contributed to a significant surge in direct sales during this pandemic era. As someone who has personally seen the influx
In recent years, Mezcal, tequila’s more complex and artisanal cousin, has experienced a meteoric rise in popularity. Once a rare and elusive spirit, Mezcal can now be found on the shelves of some of the world’s most prestigious bars and in the collections of spirits enthusiasts everywhere. This surge in demand has turned Mezcal into
Disney Cruise Line has been identified as a key player in Disney’s growth strategy, with CFO Hugh Johnston highlighting the “enormous” opportunities that lie ahead for the cruise business. Johnston emphasized the high guest satisfaction scores associated with Disney cruises, indicating a strong foundation for future success. With new ships such as the Disney Treasure
Spirit Airlines is undergoing significant changes to its merchandising strategy, with a focus on attracting higher-end flyers. CEO Ted Christie has hinted at these upcoming shifts during the Q1 earnings call, stressing the need for Spirit to appeal to a broader range of travelers beyond its traditional discount base. This move is essential to adapt
Disney Cruise Line has been recognized as a significant contributor to revenue and operating income growth within Disney’s Parks and Experiences business. CFO Hugh Johnston emphasized the “enormous” potential that the cruise business holds for the company in the long term. He highlighted the high guest satisfaction scores that Disney cruises consistently receive, pointing towards
Boeing, the aircraft manufacturing giant, is once again under scrutiny as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) launches an investigation into the company’s practices. The investigation comes after reports surfaced that workers at a South Carolina plant falsified inspection records on certain 787 planes. This revelation has raised concerns about the safety and quality control measures
Sauvignon Blanc, while traditionally associated with regions like Bordeaux and the Loire Valley in France, has been gaining momentum in California. In fact, the first Sauvignon Blanc vines were planted in California in the Livermore Valley in the 19th century. Today, Sauvignon Blanc is the fourth leading white grape variety in the state, according to
Nestled inland from the rugged North Cornwall coast, between Padstow and Newquay, Porthcothan Mill Cottage exudes a sense of history and charm. The presence of original millstones at the entrance hints at the cottage’s past as part of a water mill dating back to 1242. Stepping onto the property, you are transported back in time
